List of Top 20 Universities in USA

In today’s highly competitive academic environment, selecting the ideal university can feel like an overwhelming task. Whether you’re a high school senior navigating your college options or a working professional pursuing further education, this guide aims to offer valuable insights into some of the most esteemed institutions throughout the United States. From renowned Ivy League institutions to leading public research universities, each entry on this list boasts distinctive strengths and opportunities tailored to students from diverse backgrounds. Join us as we delve into an exploration of excellence, innovation, and academic excellence that characterizes the top universities in the USA.

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Below, you’ll find a compilation of the top 20 universities in the USA for your review.

Here is a list of the top 20 university facilities in the USA.

1. Harvard University
2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
3. Stanford University
4. University of California Berkeley
5. University of Chicago
6. University of Pennsylvania
7. Cornel University
8. California Institute of Technology
9. Yale University
10. Princiton University
11. Johns Hopkins University
12. University of California, Los Angeles
13. University of Michigan- Ann Arbor
14. New York University
15. North Western University
16. Carnegie Mellon University
17. Duke University
18. University of Texas at Austin
19. University of California, San Diego
20. University of Washington

 1. Harvard University

Established in 1636, Harvard stands as the oldest institution of higher education in the United States, commanding unparalleled influence, reputation, and academic prestige not only within the nation but across the globe. Situated in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just three miles northwest of Boston, Harvard boasts a sprawling 209-acre campus, encompassing 10 degree-granting schools alongside the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, two theaters, and five museums. Its claim to the largest academic library system worldwide is substantiated by a staggering collection of 18 million volumes, 180,000 serial titles, an estimated 400 million manuscript items, and 10 million photographs. Originally conceived to train clergy, Harvard, like many pre-Civil War American colleges, underwent a swift secularization of its curriculum and student body. By the 20th century, the university’s admissions policy evolved to embrace a more diverse applicant pool. Presently, Harvard hosts a student body of 21,000 individuals, each navigating the campus where the illustrious statue of John Harvard stands, a tribute to the university’s founding benefactor. Students often engage in the tradition of rubbing the statue’s foot, believed to bring good fortune. Admission to Harvard is fiercely competitive, and while the nominal cost of attendance may be steep, the university’s substantial endowment allows for robust financial aid packages, availed by approximately 60 percent of students. Freshmen find lodging within the historic Harvard Yard dormitories, enjoying the proximity to campus amenities and dining at the picturesque Annenberg dining hall. With over 400 official student societies, Harvard fosters a vibrant extracurricular scene, from athletic pursuits in Harvard Stadium to entrepreneurial ventures at the Harvard Innovation Lab and journalistic endeavors at the Harvard Crimson. Harvard’s esteemed alumni roster boasts eight U.S. presidents, numerous foreign dignitaries, 62 living billionaires, 359 Rhodes Scholars, and 242 Marshall Scholars. Their accolades range from Pulitzer Prizes to Nobel Prizes and Academy Awards, with Harvard affiliates collectively earning 108 Olympic medals. Regularly topping global rankings, Harvard’s unwavering pursuit of excellence underscores its enduring commitment to academic distinction.

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The guiding principle of “Mind and Hand” encapsulates the mission of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to advance knowledge in science, technology, and other fields of study aimed at improving the world. Established in 1861, MIT started as a small community of problem-solvers and science enthusiasts eager to apply their expertise to real-world challenges. Over time, it has grown into a renowned educational institution with over 1,000 faculty members and more than 11,000 students at both undergraduate and graduate levels. MIT is an independent, coeducational university with private endowment, structured into five schools (architecture and planning, engineering, humanities, arts, and social sciences, management, science) and one college (computing). Despite its growth, MIT remains committed to educational innovation as a central tenet of its philosophy. The institution’s researchers are pioneers in various fields such as artificial intelligence, climate adaptation, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. Past contributions from MIT have led to significant scientific advancements like radar development, magnetic core memory invention, and the expanding universe concept. Beyond science and technology, MIT boasts a vibrant athletic program, with approximately 20 percent of undergraduates participating in sports teams and 33 varsity sports available. Additionally, a rich arts culture thrives on campus, with 12 museums and galleries, including the popular MIT Museum, attracting thousands of visitors annually. Students are actively engaged in over 60 music, theatre, writing, and dance groups, and MIT faculty include distinguished individuals such as Pulitzer Prize winners and Guggenheim fellows. Situated on 168 acres along the Charles River basin in Cambridge, MIT’s campus features iconic landmarks designed by renowned architects like Alvar Aalto, Frank Gehry, and Steven Holl. The campus seamlessly integrates with neighboring Cambridge neighborhoods, particularly Kendall Square, renowned for its innovation hub. This close connection between industry and research has fostered a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit among MIT alumni, who have launched over 30,000 active companies, generating millions of jobs and substantial annual revenue. In essence, the impact of MIT extends far beyond its campus borders, shaping both the local community and the global economy.

3. Stanford University

Stanford University epitomizes a hub of exploration, ingenuity, and groundbreaking medical advancements. Guided by its foundational mission of advancing society through research and education, Stanford endeavors to forge a sustainable future, unearth profound insights about our world, accelerate the societal impact of its research endeavors, and cultivate students into global citizens. Annually, more than 7,000 undergraduate and 9,000 graduate students embark on their academic journeys at Stanford. Nestled in the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area, Stanford occupies the ancestral land of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe and first opened its doors to students in 1891. Encompassing a vast expanse of 8,180 acres, Stanford boasts one of the largest university campuses in the United States. It is home to 18 interdisciplinary research institutes and seven distinguished schools: the Graduate School of Business, School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences, Graduate School of Education, School of Engineering, School of Humanities and Sciences, Law School, and School of Medicine. Established in 1885 by California senator Leland Stanford and his wife, Jane, Stanford University was conceived to “promote the public welfare by exercising an influence in behalf of humanity and civilization.” The couple’s philanthropic vision emerged from personal tragedy, with the loss of their only child to typhoid. Their decision to establish a university on their farm served as a lasting memorial. Since its inception, Stanford has maintained a commitment to non-sectarianism, co-education, and accessibility, offering a blend of traditional liberal arts education and cutting-edge technology and engineering instruction. Over the decades, Stanford has garnered acclaim, boasting 20 Nobel laureates within its ranks and consistently securing a top-three position in global university rankings. Fondly referred to as “The Farm,” Stanford’s campus buzzes with a vibrant student life, boasting over 625 organized student groups. Sports hold a prominent place in campus culture, with state-of-the-art recreational facilities and wellness programs catering to students, faculty, and staff alike. Stanford boasts an extensive athletics program, encompassing 36 varsity and 33 club sports, alongside physical education classes, fitness and wellness initiatives, aquatics, intramurals, and adventure programming. The university’s sports teams are affectionately known as the “Stanford Cardinal.” Stanford also nurtures a rich tradition of fostering creativity and artistic expression, boasting a dynamic campus arts district and two world-class museums that regularly showcase captivating exhibitions. Eight dining halls, a teaching kitchen, and organic gardens ensure that the campus community enjoys access to nourishing, sustainable meals.

4. University of California Berkeley

Established in 1868, the University of California, Berkeley (UCB) stands as a distinguished public research university and serves as the flagship institution among the ten research universities affiliated with the University of California system. A founding member of the Association of American Universities, Berkeley boasts several renowned research institutes, including the Mathematical Sciences Research Institute and the Space Sciences Laboratory. The university’s illustrious alumni, faculty, and researchers include 99 Nobel laureates, 23 Turing Award winners, and 14 Pulitzer Prize recipients. Notable contributions from Berkeley affiliates include J. R. Oppenheimer’s leadership in the Manhattan Project and Ernest Lawrence’s invention of the cyclotron, which facilitated the discovery of 16 chemical elements. From its humble beginnings with just 40 students, Berkeley swiftly emerged as California’s first full-curriculum university, rapidly gaining recognition. By the early 1940s, it ranked second only to Harvard, further bolstering its reputation through groundbreaking work at its radiation laboratory during the atomic bomb project. Berkeley’s legacy of student activism burgeoned during the 1960s, highlighted by the Free Speech Movement of 1964 and vocal opposition to the Vietnam War. Despite past controversies, today’s student body tends towards political moderation. Encompassing approximately 1,232 acres in the San Francisco Bay Area, Berkeley’s campus boasts Beaux-Arts-style buildings designated as California Historical Landmarks. With three-quarters of its 40,000 students being undergraduates, campus life exudes youthful energy within a vibrant urban setting. Residential halls provide a safe and supportive environment for most undergraduate students, fostering friendships and academic growth. Additionally, student co-ops and housing cooperatives offer alternative living options, further enriching the campus community. Berkeley students enjoy a plethora of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and societies catering to diverse interests. Campus attractions such as the Lawrence Hall of Science, California Memorial Stadium, and Sproul Plaza contribute to a dynamic and engaging student experience.

5. University of Chicago

Established in 1856, the University of Chicago stands as a premier private research institution nestled within the bustling urban landscape of Chicago, the third most populous city in the United States. Renowned beyond the Ivy League, Chicago consistently secures top-ten positions in both national and international rankings. Distinguished for its professional schools, such as the Pritzker School of Medicine, the Booth School of Business, and the Harris School of Public Policy Studies, Chicago has fostered the development of numerous academic disciplines, including sociology, economics, law, and literary criticism, through its esteemed alumni. The university’s crest depicts a phoenix rising from the ashes, symbolizing the rebirth of the institution following the fire, foreclosure, and demolition of the original campus. In 1890, the current University of Chicago emerged triumphantly from these challenges, funded by donations from affluent Chicagoans and philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, in stark contrast to its origins founded through a land endowment from the controversial pro-slavery senator Stephen Douglas. Presently, the University of Chicago boasts an enrollment of approximately 16,000 students, with a male to female ratio of 56:44 and a quarter of students originating from overseas, reflecting the institution’s global outlook. With over 400 clubs and societies, students engage in a diverse array of activities spanning sports, arts, cultural and religious groups, academic and political organizations, and clubs promoting unique interests. Notable examples include the University of Chicago bowl team, which boasts an impressive record of 118 tournament victories and 15 national championships, and the university’s top-ranked Model United Nations team. Media and film enthusiasts find ample opportunities for involvement, with the university hosting the longest continuously running student film society, Doc Films, along with various newspapers, magazines, and theater groups like Off-Off Campus. Aspiring broadcasters can hone their skills at the university-owned radio station WHPK. The University of Chicago boasts a prestigious faculty, past and present, including 29 Nobel laureates and former US president Barack Obama. Its accomplished alumni span diverse fields, from novelists Philip Roth and Saul Bellow to political figures like pollster Nate Silver and strategist David Axelrod, as well as pioneers like balloonist Jeannette Piccard and the fictional archaeologist Indiana Jones.

6. University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania, a prestigious private Ivy League research institution situated in the vibrant city of Philadelphia, traces its roots back to 1740, when it was founded by Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States. Franklin’s vision for higher education went beyond traditional clergy training, emphasizing a curriculum that embraced arts, humanities, practical skills, and public service a philosophy that endures today through the university’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation. As of fall 2017, Penn boasted an enrollment of 21,599 students, evenly divided between undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is renowned for its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and research, offering unique double degree programs, specialized majors, and academic flexibility. Admission to Penn is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of 9.3 percent for the class of 2021, reflecting the institution’s commitment to diversity, with 46 percent of admitted students identifying as black, Hispanic, Asian, or Native American, and over half of all students being women. Spanning over 279 acres in West Philadelphia’s University City, Penn’s core campus hosts all of its schools and the majority of its research institutes, surrounded by a vibrant neighborhood with various amenities. Student life at Penn is enriched by a plethora of social, political, religious, and cultural activities, supported by cultural centers and unique museums on campus, including the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, the Arthur Ross Gallery, and the Institute of Contemporary Art. The university also places a strong emphasis on sports and recreation, with students participating in a wide range of activities, from ice hockey to athletics and various competitive, instructional, and recreational sports clubs. With its arts and sciences programs consistently ranked in the top 10 nationally and a high rate of graduates entering prestigious positions, including Fortune 500 CEOs, the University of Pennsylvania rightfully maintains its esteemed Ivy League status and reputation.

7. Cornel University

Cornell University, guided by the visionary words of its co-founder Ezra Cornell “I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study” was established in 1865 with a groundbreaking mission to foster learning and innovation across all fields of knowledge. Since its inception, Cornell has remained steadfast in its commitment to co-education and non-sectarianism, upholding liberal traditions that celebrate diversity and inclusivity. Recent milestones, such as the admission of the first all-female class to its renowned Farrier program in veterinary science, underscore Cornell’s dedication to breaking barriers. Proudly pioneering in academia, Cornell was the first university to offer degrees in journalism and to introduce modern Far Eastern language courses. Situated atop East Hill in Ithaca, New York, the main campus spans 2,300 acres, encompassing a vibrant array of laboratories, administrative buildings, academic facilities, athletic venues, auditoriums, and museums. The campus architecture is a captivating blend of Collegiate Gothic, Victorian, Neoclassical, and modernist styles, reflecting Cornell’s rich history and diverse influences. Additionally, Cornell extends its reach beyond Ithaca, with campuses in New York City—including the medical campus Weill Cornell in Manhattan—and the innovative Cornell Tech engineering campus. Further afield, Cornell’s presence extends to Qatar, where it operates the first American medical college established outside the United States. Nestled amidst the picturesque Finger Lakes region, the Ithaca campus offers a serene backdrop of green spaces and natural beauty. Here, students immerse themselves in academic pursuits while also embracing a vibrant campus life filled with clubs, societies, and activities catering to diverse interests. First-year undergraduates reside on North Campus, while upper-level students gravitate towards various housing options, from fraternities and sororities to themed residence halls or off-campus apartments. With over 1,000 organizations on campus, ranging from sports clubs to volunteer programs, students find ample opportunities for personal growth and community engagement. Fitness enthusiasts can explore a range of recreational activities, including caving and rope climbing, at the university’s four sports centers. Meanwhile, food aficionado’s delight in Cornell’s renowned dining facilities, earning the university a spot among the top ten universities for culinary offerings, with over 30 dining venues scattered across campus.

8. California Institute of Technology

The California Institute of Technology (Caltech), situated in Pasadena, California, approximately 11 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles, stands as a globally esteemed institution dedicated to science and engineering research and education. Renowned for its prolific research output and state-of-the-art facilities, including the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (NASA-owned), the Caltech Seismological Laboratory, and the International Observatory Network, Caltech occupies a prominent position among the few institutes of technology in the United States focused on technical arts and applied sciences. Its rigorous admissions process ensures that only a select group of exceptionally talented students gain entry. Founded in 1891 by Amos G. Throop as a preparatory and vocational school, Caltech has evolved into a leading center of scientific research, particularly during the early 20th century and World War II, where it played a pivotal role in advancing US scientific endeavors. Today, Caltech houses esteemed initiatives such as the Einstein Papers Project and an energy innovation hub aimed at revolutionizing fuel generation from sunlight. Spanning 124 acres, Caltech’s campus is conveniently located near Old Town Pasadena and the Pasadena Playhouse District, offering students easy access to vibrant city life. On-campus, students engage in a plethora of social activities, clubs, and recreational facilities, while also participating in intercollegiate sports with the Caltech Beavers leading the charge across 13 sports. Caltech places a strong emphasis on fostering creativity and personal development, offering opportunities for the study and performance of music, theater, and visual arts. The Athenaeum, a majestic building at the heart of the campus, serves as a venue for formal and informal gatherings, reflecting Caltech’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. Balancing a rigorous academic curriculum with activities promoting personal growth, Caltech provides students with a transformative educational experience. While it may not boast the same name recognition as Ivy League universities or institutions like Oxford and Cambridge, Caltech consistently ranks among the world’s best universities, with technology and engineering highlighted as its key academic strengths.

9. Yale University

Yale University stands as a distinguished private research institution and a revered member of the esteemed Ivy League, renowned for its academic excellence. Nestled in New Haven, Connecticut, the city boasts the distinction of being America’s first planned urban center, crafted by English Puritans who founded Yale in 1701, thereby establishing it as the nation’s third-oldest higher education establishment. Today, New Haven, nestled within the New York metropolitan area, serves as a vibrant hub heavily influenced by Yale’s presence, earning it the moniker of the “Cultural Capital of Connecticut.” The city’s charm is further accentuated by its picturesque scenery, adorned with artistry at every turn, as noted by the New York Times. Yale’s sprawling central campus, spanning 260 acres, boasts architectural gems dating back to the mid-18th century. The university is structured into 14 schools, encompassing the original undergraduate college, the Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and 12 professional schools. Undergraduate students at Yale embark on a liberal arts journey, embracing interdisciplinary learning before selecting a major. A hallmark of Yale’s undergraduate experience is its unique residential college system, fostering a sense of community akin to a small school while providing access to the extensive resources of a large university. Artistry permeates every corner of Yale’s campus, with public art installations adorning courtyards, plazas, and academic spaces, stimulating contemplation and aesthetic appreciation. College life at Yale is vibrant and diverse, enriched by a bustling arts scene featuring exhibitions at renowned museums and galleries, alongside the Tony Award-winning Yale Cabaret—a student-operated theater-restaurant. In addition to cultural pursuits, Yale offers top-tier sports facilities, including a golf course, tennis centers, and more, catering to a range of athletic interests. The university boasts over 30 varsity teams, providing competitive sports opportunities for both men and women. To join Yale’s esteemed academic community is to walk in the footsteps of greatness, with notable alumni including signatories of the American Declaration of Independence and five U.S. presidents. Yale’s esteemed reputation transcends national borders, attracting applicants from around the globe, reflecting its status as one of the world’s premier universities.

10. Princeton University

Princeton University stands as a renowned institution distinguished by its unwavering commitment to undergraduate education and service. Through its dedicated financial aid program, Princeton ensures that all accepted students can pursue their academic aspirations without the burden of substantial debt. The university strives to attract the most talented individuals from diverse cultural, ethnic, and economic backgrounds, fostering an inclusive community where students are prepared for leadership, service, and lifelong learning. Princeton’s curriculum emphasizes creativity, innovation, and collaboration across a spectrum of disciplines, including the humanities, arts, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, students cultivate close relationships with esteemed professors who are leaders in their respective fields. Every faculty member is engaged in teaching, and students are encouraged to undertake original research, fostering a dynamic learning environment. At Princeton, approximately 5,300 undergraduate students are integral members of a vibrant campus community, supported by a global network of alumni long after graduation. Students are encouraged to explore diverse academic and extracurricular opportunities, leveraging the university’s exceptional facilities and resources to enrich their educational journey. The Princeton experience is enriched by the diverse perspectives and engagement of students, faculty, and staff from various backgrounds and locations worldwide. Interdisciplinary connections form the cornerstone of Princeton’s curriculum, fostering meaningful interactions and fostering a collaborative learning environment. We invite you to discover more about Princeton’s unique attributes and the transformative educational experience it offers.

11. Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University is an American private research university in Baltimore, Maryland. It was founded in 1876, and named after its first benefactor, the American entrepreneur, abolitionist, and philanthropist Johns Hopkins.  It blazed a trail among higher education institutions by being the first US research university, and today it puts more money into research than any other US academic institution. It’s also widely credited with revolutionizing higher education by being the first US institution to integrate teaching and research. To date, Johns Hopkins has spawned 27 Nobel laureates, including the former US president Woodrow Wilson.  Johns Hopkins is organized into 10 divisions on campuses in Maryland and Washington, DC with international centers in Italy, China, and Singapore. Johns Hopkins regularly ranks in the top 10 universities in the US, and is also competitive globally, especially for its undergraduate programs.  Johns Hopkins enrolls more than 24,000 full- and part-time students across its nine academic divisions with faculty members and students studying, teaching, and learning across more than 260 programs in the arts and music, the humanities, the social and natural sciences, engineering, international studies, education, business, and the health professions.  Applicants at undergraduate level are generally ranked in the top 10 percent of their high school class, and over time applications and selectivity has risen. For the class graduating in 2020, the acceptance rate was 11.4 percent.  Most Johns Hopkins undergraduates study at Homewood, a 140-acre North Baltimore campus that is home to the schools of engineering and arts and sciences. It’s a traditional college setting in the heart of a big and blossoming city, with red-brick buildings, tree-lined pathways, an iconic clock tower, and expansive green quads.  Nearly all undergraduates based in the main campus live in residence halls during their first two years, where they make friends and take advantage of what has officially been named one of the best campus dining programs in the US.  There’s also easy access to top class arts and culture: the school’s conservatory, the Peabody Institute, regularly hosts musical extravaganzas, concerts and performances, while the Center for Visual Arts, located next to the Baltimore Museum of Art, provides plenty of sources for artistic inspiration. Off-campus, students can venture into Baltimore itself, a city with a rich history as a working-class port that has blossomed into a hub of social, cultural, and economic activity – yet retains a small-town feel.

12. University of California, Los Angeles

Situated in the sunny locale of Los Angeles, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) secured the 31st position in the QS World University Rankings® 2016-2017.

UCLA graduates boast exceptional employability worldwide, as evidenced by the university’s outstanding performance in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings® 2017.

UCLA is distinguished for its top-tier programs, ranking among the world’s top 10 universities in various fields:

English language and literature

Geography and linguistics

Modern languages

Electrical and electronic engineering

Biological sciences

Medicine

Psychology

Chemistry

Mathematics

Communication and media studies

Education and training

Anthropology

Archaeology

Arts and humanities

Life sciences and medicine

13. University of Michigan- Ann Arbor

As one of the leading research universities in the United States, the University of Michigan was established in 1817, predating Michigan’s statehood, and relocated from Detroit to its current Central campus in Ann Arbor in 1837. Spanning 780 acres, Michigan comprises its Central and North campuses, along with two regional campuses and a center in Detroit. With a substantial student body of approximately 46,000 individuals, undergraduates make up two-thirds of this population. Recognized for its rigorous research standards, Michigan offers a comprehensive graduate program encompassing doctoral degrees in humanities, social sciences, and STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), alongside professional degrees in architecture, business, medicine, law, pharmacy, nursing, social work, public health, and dentistry. Boasting a vast alumni network of over half a million individuals, Michigan holds one of the largest alumni bases globally, serving as a valuable asset for current students in terms of networking and industry connections. Approximately a quarter of students reside on campus, with numerous residence halls catering to undergraduates, while family housing primarily accommodates graduate students. Off-campus housing options include apartments, houses, and co-operatives, with themed communities within residence halls allowing students to engage with peers who share similar interests. Michigan offers over 1,600 clubs and societies, ranging from engineering project teams to community service organizations and charitable initiatives. The renowned Michigan Marching Band, with a history spanning over a century and comprising 350 student members, is just one example of the university’s vibrant musical ensembles. Student activism is ingrained in Michigan’s history, with various groups dedicated to diverse causes. Cultural and ethnic student organizations facilitate the formation of smaller communities within the university, while publications like the Michigan Daily, published five days a week during the Fall and Winter terms, keep students informed about campus news and events.

14. New York University

New York University (NYU) has earned the prestigious distinction of receiving the maximum five QS stars, scoring full marks across categories such as research, innovation, facilities, and specialist criteria. Ranked 46th in the QS World University Rankings® 2016-2017, NYU stands among the world’s premier universities, with its graduates highly sought after by recruiters, a testament to the university’s exceptional performance in the Graduate Employability Rankings 2017. NYU is recognized as a leader in various fields, securing top positions in the QS World University Rankings® by Subject for disciplines including Accounting and Finance, Mathematics, Law and Legal Studies, Psychology, and Philosophy. Situated in New York City, NYU boasts campuses in Manhattan and Brooklyn, with its central hub situated around the picturesque Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village. The university counts renowned figures such as actor Alec Baldwin, pop sensation Lady Gaga, and acclaimed playwright Tony Kushner among its distinguished alumni.

15. North Western University

Northwestern University goes beyond traditional academic boundaries with its three campuses and global presence. Our highly collaborative environment offers diverse students and faculty exceptional opportunities for both personal and professional development. As one of the nation’s leading private research and teaching universities, Northwestern boasts two campuses on the shores of Lake Michigan: the expansive 240-acre main campus in Evanston, situated approximately 12 miles north of downtown Chicago, and a compact 25-acre campus in Chicago. Additionally, a third campus is located in Doha, Qatar. With over 8,000 full-time undergraduate students and more than 13,000 graduate and professional students, Northwestern University is a member of the Big Ten conference, and its athletic teams are known as the Wildcats. Morton Schapiro has served as president since 2009.

Ranked 9th among national universities by U.S. News and World Report, Northwestern is renowned nationally and internationally for its educational programs. The university provides need-based financial aid to international students pursuing undergraduate degrees, meeting 100% of admitted first-year students’ demonstrated financial need for all four years. Northwestern values students of demonstrated academic excellence from diverse social, ethnic, and economic backgrounds. Over 90% of undergraduate applicants rank in the top 10% of their high school classes, representing all 50 states and over 120 countries worldwide. The university comprises 12 colleges and schools, including the Bienen School of Music, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, School of Communication, School of Education and Social Policy, McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science, Graduate School, Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications, Pritzker School of Law, Kellogg School of Management, Feinberg School of Medicine, School of Professional Studies, and Northwestern University in Qatar.

16. Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University stands as a global research institution, challenging its students to contribute impactful work across a spectrum of top-ranked programs spanning engineering, computer science, robotics, business, public policy, fine arts, science, and the humanities. The university’s esteemed faculty, recognized with numerous awards, collaborates closely with students to develop solutions for real-world challenges through interdisciplinary approaches, fostering a learning environment that is both profound and inspiring. Since its establishment in 1900, Carnegie Mellon has been a hotbed of innovation, generating groundbreaking research that leads to new discoveries while shaping the landscape of fine arts from Broadway to Hollywood.

Renowned for its intersection of technology and society, Carnegie Mellon leverages technological advancements to advance the human condition, earning recognition for its significant contributions in this domain. Graduates of Carnegie Mellon are highly sought after for their exceptional talent and problem-solving abilities, with alumni achieving top honors in diverse fields, from Nobel Prizes to Academy Awards. The university consists of seven schools and colleges, including the College of Engineering, the College of Fine Arts, the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy, the Mellon College of Science, the School of Computer Science, and the Tepper School of Business. With robust intercollege degree programs, students are empowered to customize their educational journey, fostering integration and balance across sciences, engineering, humanities, and the arts. Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon’s main campus hosts numerous degree-granting programs, supplemented by additional campuses worldwide, including satellite campuses in Africa, Australia, Silicon Valley, and Qatar. Today, Carnegie Mellon’s extensive network of over 100,000 alumni spans the globe, reflecting the enduring spirit of founder Andrew Carnegie’s words, “My heart is in the work.”

17. Duke University

Established in 1838, Duke University is a private research institution situated in Durham, North Carolina, named in honor of James Buchanan Duke’s father, Washington Duke, a significant benefactor of the university. Duke’s expansive campus covers over 8,600 acres across three locations in Durham, along with a marine laboratory in Beaufort. Designed primarily by architect Julian Abele, the main campus showcases Gothic architecture highlighted by the iconic Duke Chapel, a focal point seating nearly 1,600 individuals and housing a 5,200-pipe organ. Ranked as the seventh-wealthiest private university in the United States, Duke boasts an impressive academic roster, with 32 professors recognized as Highly Cited Researchers by Thomson Reuters in 2014. Additionally, the university has affiliations with ten Nobel laureates and three Turing Award winners, solidifying its status as the second-largest private employer in North Carolina. Originating from its humble beginnings as Brown’s Schoolhouse, Duke has emerged as a leading global academic and research institution. The Levine Science Research Center stands as the largest interdisciplinary research facility of its kind in the United States. Furthermore, Duke expanded its reach with the establishment of Duke Kunshan University in China in 2014, offering a unique blend of American-style liberal arts education and Chinese cultural heritage. Recent academic milestones include Duke students receiving Rhodes Scholarships in 2002 and 2006, along with the unveiling of the world’s first functional invisibility cloak by Duke researchers in 2006. With an approximate enrollment of 15,000 students, predominantly at the postgraduate level, Duke maintains a favorable 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio, facilitating personalized learning experiences. Undergraduates have access to four academic schools, including Trinity College of Arts and Sciences and the Sanford School of Public Policy, while graduate students can choose from nine graduate and professional schools, such as Duke Law School and the Fuqua School of Business. Duke’s student body is characterized by ethnic diversity and active political engagement, exemplified by historical events like Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech on campus during the civil rights movement and the removal of the statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee from Duke University Chapel’s entrance following the 2017 Charlottesville violence. The majority of Duke students reside on campus, taking advantage of the university’s extensive sports facilities and engaging in a vibrant student life. With over 400 student organizations spanning cultural, faith-based, political, and service-oriented interests, Duke fosters a dynamic environment that encourages student interaction, exchange, and the pursuit of individual passions.

18. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin holds the 67th position in the QS World University Rankings® 2018 and is listed among the top 80 universities worldwide for employability in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2017. Notably, the university excels in communication and media studies, securing the sixth spot globally in the QS World University Rankings by Subject.

19. University of California, San Diego

The University of California, San Diego (also known as UC San Diego), is one of the top 20 universities in the United States, according to the 2018 edition of the QS World University Rankings. The seventh oldest of the 10 campuses which comprise the University of California, UC San Diego is home to approximately 22,700 undergraduates and 6,300 postgraduates. The university is split into six different residential colleges, as well as three graduate schools and two professional medical schools. The campus is decorated by over a dozen public art projects, providing the university with a distinctive look unlike other institutions in the state of California.

The University of California San Diego is located in the neighborhood of La Jolla in northern San Diego, California, where it’s bordered by the communities of La Jolla Shores, Torrey Pines, and University City. The main campus consists of 761 buildings that occupy a huge 1,152 acres, with natural reserves covering about 889 acres.  Around 37,000 students attend UC San Diego, the lion’s share of which are undergraduates, with the school offering over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The origins of UC San Diego go back to the early 20th century and the founding of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the first permanent marine science facility in the Western hemisphere and a pioneer in climate change theory.  UC San Diego is a public research university organized into six undergraduate residential colleges, five academic divisions (arts and humanities, biological sciences, engineering, physical sciences and social sciences), and five graduate and professional schools (Rady School of Management, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, School of Global Policy and Strategy, UC San Diego School of Medicine and Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences).  UC San Diego has been ranked in the top five best public universities in the world, and of its current academic staff, 29 have been elected to the National Academy of Engineering, 70 to the National Academy of Sciences, 45 to the Institute of Medicine and 110 to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.Students can get involved in all the cultural activities, clubs, societies, and sports that you would expect from a top-ranking US university. There are over 550 student organizations and 38 national and local Greek organizations hosted on campus, with 20 percent of students joining fraternities and sororities. Highlights of student life include the Price Center (PC), a social hub comprising multiple restaurants, the central bookstore, a cinema, and office space. The Ché Café is a student worker cooperative, social center and vegan café which is also a prominent underground music venue. In the past, bands including Green Day, Bon Iver, and Bright Eyes have played here.

20. University of Washington

The University of Washington (UW) stands as a leading public university with a profound impact on individuals, our community, and the world at large. Whether empowering young minds for a limitless future or addressing pressing global issues through bold research and academic inquiry, our influence is far-reaching. Ranked as the 10th best university globally by Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s 2015 rankings, UW educates over 54,000 students annually, shaping ideas into tangible impacts that transform lives and society.

Honorable Mentions

The previous mentioned here top universities competitor however we have collected few more honorable mentions for you.

1-Brown University

2-Boston University

3-Texas A&M University

4-Emory University

5-Arizona State University

1-Brown University

Brown University, a distinguished private institution belonging to the Ivy League, is situated in Providence, Rhode Island. It attained the 49th position globally in the QS World University Rankings® 2016-2017 and secured the 25th spot in the Graduate Employability Rankings 2017. According to the QS World University Rankings® by Subject, Brown University excels in development studies (25th), economics and econometrics (30th), and English language and literature (36th). Established in 1764, Brown University is a liberal arts college with a strong focus on research and a commitment to sustainability. Its progress towards sustainability and emission reduction is documented on the “Brown is Green” website.

2-Boston University

Boston University is a major global research institution, creating breakthroughs in everything from African studies to zebrafish genetics. With over 34,000 part-time and full-time undergraduate and graduate students and nearly 10,000 faculty and staff spread across 17 schools and colleges, BU’s three city campuses are always humming. Established in 1869 by three Methodist businessmen, Boston University has since evolved into the largest university in Boston and the fourth-largest private university in the country. In 2018, U.S. News & World Report ranked BU 37th in the nation and 39th among global universities. The faculty features a Pulitzer Prize winner, a MacArthur fellow, a former US Poet Laureate, and dozens of Guggenheim fellows. Our graduates are among the most employable in the country and the world—5th and 6th, respectively, according to Times Higher Education.BU is a member of the Association of American Universities, an invitation-only group of 62 of North America’s most prestigious research universities. One of only four Boston-area members, BU boasts particular interdisciplinary breadth and depth of excellence in cloud computing and cyber security; engineering biology; infectious diseases; neuroscience; photonics; urban policy; education; and the humanities. Home also to a medical school and teaching hospital, in FY2017 BU landed more than $400M in federal research dollars. In the commercial sector, some 200 companies are developing and selling products based on BU discoveries. BU is also a global university, with thousands of international scholars, faculty, and students on campus at any given time. By the same token, thousands of Terriers and faculty members get their passports stamped each year for study, research, and internship opportunities on all seven continents.With an alumni base of more than 300,000 graduates, Boston University has produced many notable alums including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The University counts 11 current or former governors of US states, 7 United States senators, and 32 members of the United States House of Representatives among its alumni. And a slew of Hollywood stars, including Geena Davis, Julianne Moore, Faye Dunaway, and Jason Alexander, call BU their alma mater, as do a number of other celebrated artists and thinkers. BU is nestled in the heart of Boston, a hotbed of high tech and biomedicine, and the birthplace of American history, serving as an extended classroom for students, offering study, internship, and professional opportunities with some of the world’s most influential leaders in fields from art to finance to biotech. It’s no wonder BU is called “Boston’s university.”

3-Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, the flagship institution of the 18-member Texas A&M University System, stands as a tier one research institution, distinguished by its membership in the Association of American Universities, an invitation extended to only 62 institutions, and its designation as a federal land-, sea-, and space-grant university, a status shared by only 17 others.

Established as the state’s inaugural public institution of higher education, Texas A&M University has strategically evolved into one of the nation’s most diverse and comprehensive universities. Offering nearly 200 undergraduate majors, approximately 245 graduate degree programs, and various professional degrees in fields such as law, veterinary medicine, and medicine, Texas A&M provides an extensive array of educational opportunities. With a student population exceeding 68,600, with about 63,000 located on the College Station campus, Texas A&M ranks among the largest universities in the United States. Additionally, it operates a maritime branch campus in Galveston, Texas, an engineering branch campus in Doha, Qatar, and has centers in Mexico and Costa Rica.

Renowned for delivering a world-class education at an affordable cost, Texas A&M University boasts a student body where 26 percent are first-generation college attendees and nearly 60 percent rank within the top 10 percent of their high school graduating class. Notably, Texas A&M stands second among public universities nationwide for enrolling National Merit Scholars. Moreover, it consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the number of science and engineering doctorates conferred and within the top 20 for doctoral degrees awarded to minorities.

As a leading research institution, Texas A&M University recorded research expenditures exceeding $892 million in fiscal year 2016. Recognized by the National Science Foundation as 16th in the nation for total research and development expenditures in fiscal year 2015, with funding surpassing $866 million, Texas A&M’s research endeavors span the globe, with over 600 initiatives underway across more than 80 countries. The esteemed faculty includes three Nobel laureates and 53 members of various prestigious academies and institutions.

Addressing real-world challenges, Texas A&M University’s faculty and students engage in research aimed at fostering sustainable and efficient energy solutions, environmental conservation, economic development, and advancements in human, animal, and plant health.

4-Emory University

Emory University is a community characterized by inquiry-driven exploration, ethical engagement, and diversity, where members unite in collaborative efforts to enact positive change in the world through bold leadership in education, research, scholarship, healthcare, and social advocacy.

Internationally acclaimed for its exceptional liberal arts college, distinguished professional schools, and prominent healthcare system in the Southeast, Emory University strikes a unique balance uncommon for institutions of its caliber. It secures over $500 million in research funding while upholding its longstanding commitment to teaching excellence.

Embracing the vibrant legacy and dynamism of Atlanta, Emory thrives on synergy among its various schools, departments, and centers, as well as partnerships with affiliated institutions, fostering a rich environment conducive to innovation and impact.

5-Arizona State University

Arizona State University is at the forefront of advancing higher education to new heights. Recognized as the leading university in the United States for innovation for five consecutive years, ASU is dedicated to ensuring that every student has access to a top-tier education.

Committed to academic excellence and inclusivity, ASU boasts a faculty comprised of world-renowned experts in various fields. The university provides an academic environment tailored to accommodate any motivated student with a dedication to learning.

ASU attracts over 100,000 students currently enrolled from all 50 states in the U.S. and over 130 countries worldwide. These students benefit from the mentorship of their professors as they engage in tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges, expressing their creativity, and making a positive impact. Equipped with the knowledge and skills acquired at ASU, graduates emerge ready to forge a successful path forward and excel in their pursuits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the guide to the top 20 universities in the USA offers invaluable insights into some of the most esteemed educational institutions in the country. Whether you’re a prospective student, a researcher, or simply curious about academia, this comprehensive list provides a glimpse into the diverse and prestigious offerings of higher education in the United States. From renowned faculty to state-of-the-art facilities, these universities represent excellence in learning, research, and innovation. Explore the opportunities they provide and embark on a journey towards academic and personal growth.